Evaluating the e-GP System in Public Works Department (PWD)

Abstract

Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) is the application of an efficient high quality management framework to public sector procurement, facilitated through online information and processes. e-GP solutions make purchasing activities more efficient in terms of time and cost and as well as improve effectiveness of the procurement methods by ensuring transparency. Not so much research work has been done in this type of procurement. So it is high time to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement process using e-GP. This research work mainly focuses on e-GP system of the Public Works Department (PWD) of the Government of Bangladesh. A conceptual framework has been developed for the evaluation of e-GP and subsequently tested with data collected from PWD. This study examines the current status of e-GP acceptance in PWD. It also examines efficiency and effectiveness gain in PWD due to implementation of e-GP. Finally, some recommendations are proposed based on the analysis of this research and international best practices for successful implementation of e-GP system in PWD to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness. The results indicate that e-GP has positive impact on operational cost of tendering and lead time of procurement as it has reduced the administrative cost and procurement cycle time. However there is option and opportunity to improve further. Besides, users have very strong perception regarding e-GP system that, it can be a major tool against CFCC (Corruption, Collusion, Fraudulent and Coercion) practice in public procurement process. Thus overall analysis shows e-GP can be very helpful for ensuring transparency and accountability in public procurement process in Bangladesh.